Thunderbolts*
Thunderbolts* is a bold, electrifying addition to the Marvel Cinematic Universe, blending gritty action, sharp humor, and heartfelt moments through its ragtag team of antiheroes. Sebastian Stan as Bucky Barnes and Florence Pugh as Yelena Belova lead with magnetic chemistry as their witty banter grounds the film’s high-octane sequences. David Harbour’s Red Guardian brings a mix of bumbling charm and brute strength, adding levity and heart, while Julia Louis-Dreyfus as Valentina Allegra de Fontaine delivers a cunning, commanding presence, pulling strings with sly precision. Lewis Pullman’s Sentinel introduces a fresh, enigmatic edge—a morally complex figure whose intensity and subtle vulnerability make him a standout.
The ensemble, including Wyatt Russell’s US Agent and Hannah John-Kamen’s Ghost, forms a dysfunctional yet captivating team, their dynamics driving the story. Action scenes dazzle, from explosive chases to a climactic showdown balancing spectacle and emotional depth. The pacing hums, though quieter moments let Yelena’s sarcasm, Bucky’s stoicism, Harbour’s heartfelt bravado, and Louis-Dreyfus’ calculated menace shine. Some MCU tropes and a slightly rushed villain arc create minor stumbles, but the character-focused narrative keeps it engaging.
*Thunderbolts* excels in the MCU’s latest phase, offering a gritty, fun ride that echoes Captain America: The Winter Soldier while carving its own path. Despite faint echoes of DC’s Suicide Squad, it’s a superior, character-driven thrill. Pullman, Harbour, and Louis-Dreyfus elevate an already stellar cast, making this one of the MCU’s strongest post-Endgame entries. 8/10
Lead Image Courtesy of Marvel
